Meet Perry

“I still don’t believe it all… it’s nice to know there are still people around that are willing to help.”

Perry Swenson has spent his whole life in Minot. These days, he enjoys music, real music as he calls it, with a collection of 8-tracks, cassette tapes, and CDs. His favorite is Tommy James and the Shondells.

Not long ago, life looked very different. After a fall in his apartment, Perry was taken to the hospital and eventually moved into a nursing home, where he stayed for eight months. It was a major shift that took away his independence and left him uncertain about what life would look like next. What he did know was that he wanted to be back in the community.

That opportunity came through a connection with his brother and a referral to Independence, Inc. From the beginning, Perry noticed something different. “Independence, Inc. was real responsive… the communication line was always open.” What started as a conversation quickly turned into action, with a team working alongside him to find housing, coordinate supports, and help him transition out of the nursing home.

Today, Perry is living in his own accessible apartment at Broadway Circle.“I was so very glad to get out of the nursing home… and I got into a nice place.” With support from Independence, Inc., he was able to secure housing, receive rental assistance, and get help settling in. He now has in-home supports throughout the day and a team of caregivers who assist him. “The people that come help me… they are great. All of them are that way.”

As Perry talked about everything that has happened, his emotions came through. He paused, became overwhelmed, and began to cry, not because of what he went through, but because of the support he received. “I still don’t believe it all. It’s nice to know there are still people around that are willing to help… whether it’s their job or not.”

For Perry, this journey has been about more than finding a place to live“I t definitely improved my quality of life.” He is back in the community, closer to his brother, and staying connected with his daughter in Bismarck, who he proudly calls his “princess.” He is rebuilding his routine, settling into his space, and moving forward with the support around him.

When asked what he would tell someone going through something similar, Perry did not hesitate. He paused, raised his finger, smiled, and said “Go to Independence, Inc.!!!” Then he said it again, because he meant it. “It’s the best move I ever made.”

Perry’s story is a reminder that independence does not happen alone. With the right support, the right people, and the right opportunities, it is possible to return to the community and build a life that feels safe, supported, and your own.